Retail, restaurants set to reopen next week, but ‘wet pubs’ not likely to open yet

PUBS not serving food look set to remain shut when the Level 5 Covid-19 restrictions are lifted next week.

Government leaders are to meet today to discuss the plan for leaving lockdown.

The Cabinet is due to meet tomorrow while a special meeting on Friday is expected to agree on the plan for the easing of the Level 5 measures.

Indications are that restaurants and gastro pubs will be allowed to open, but so-called ‘wet pubs’ are not likely to open.

A two-stage approach to reopening for Christmas is being considered.

Retail, gyms and hairdressers are expected to reopen again while restrictions on attendance at religious ceremonies are also set to be removed.